The civilization most known for its contributions to art, philosophy, and governance is Ancient Greece. Emerging around the 8th century BCE, this civilization laid the foundations of Western culture. It is famed for its remarkable achievements in various fields, including the arts, where figures like Phidias and sculptor Praxiteles created enduring works. Philosophically, thinkers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle explored ethics, metaphysics, and political theory, significantly influencing future generations. Additionally, Ancient Greece established early concepts of democracy, particularly in Athens, where citizens participated in governance, setting precedents for modern political systems.